Netflix is set to release a three-part documentary series titled “Depp v. Heard,” which delves into the high-profile defamation trial between Johnny Depp and Amber Heard. The trial, which captivated audiences around the world, will be reexamined in the series, shedding new light on the case between the former spouses. The Netflix synopsis describes the series as an exploration of the trial’s impact on Hollywood and the subsequent fallout on social media. The trailer reveals that the documentary will present both Depp and Heard’s testimonies side by side for the first time. Directed by Emmy nominee Emma Cooper, the series follows in the footsteps of Tubi TV’s dramatization of the trial in a movie called “Hot Take: The Depp/Heard Trial.”
In March 2019, Depp filed a defamation lawsuit against Heard, claiming that an op-ed she wrote for The Washington Post had damaged his career. In the op-ed, Heard did not mention Depp by name but alleged that she had suffered domestic abuse. Depp argued that the op-ed resulted in him being dropped from the “Pirates of the Caribbean” reboot. During the trial, which began in April 2022, Heard faced public scrutiny as she accused her former husband of physically and sexually assaulting her during their marriage. Depp also claimed to be a victim of spousal abuse. Both parties denied each other’s allegations.
Depp sought $50 million in damages in his court filings, while Heard countersued for $100 million. The jury largely ruled in favor of Depp, awarding him $15 million in total damages. Due to a Virginia law limiting punitive damages, Heard was ordered to pay $10.35 million. In her countersuit, Heard received $2 million in compensatory damages for a defamatory statement made by Depp’s attorney. Ultimately, a settlement was reached, with Heard agreeing to pay Depp $1 million, as confirmed by Depp’s legal team.
The documentary series “Depp v. Heard” will be available for streaming on Netflix from August 16.